Michael Brecker dies at age 57 (1949-2007)
Jazz News:
NEW YORK — Following a two and a half year battle with MDS and then leukemia, tenor saxophonist Michael Brecker passed away on January 13, 2007. During his lifetime Brecker won 11 Grammy Awards and was among the most influential musicians in jazz since the 1960s. His discography, containing more than 900 albums, started in 1969, playing on the record “Score,” with a band led by his brother, the trumpeter Randy Brecker. His technique on the saxophone was widely emulated, and his style was much-studied in music schools throughout the world. Jazziz magazine recently called him “the most influential tenor stylist of the last 25 years”.
Inside The Score by Rayburn Wright
Jazz Book Recommendation of the month: (price/info)
This 200 page book by jazz arranger Rayburn Wright published in 1982, includes a detailed analysis of 8 classic charts by Sammy Nestico (Basie, Straight Ahead, Hay Burner), Thad Jones (Three and One, Kids are Pretty People, Us), and Bob Brookmeyer (Hello and Goodbye, First Love Song, ABC Blues). It also includes a CD with all 8 arrangements played by the University of Minnesota Jazz Ensemble. Before each complete score is presented, there are study notes explaining melodic construction, harmony, form, orchestration, voicings and substitute chords included in the arrangement. Includes complete scores and an interview with each arranger.